All Blacks star Jerome Kaino is set to leave New Zealand to play his rugby in Japan, according to reports.

The All Blacks and Blues flanker, who has been ruled out of action for six months following a shoulder injury, will hold a press conference on Friday when he is expected to announce his departure to Japan later this year.

The 28-year-old's current deal with the New Zealand Rugby Union expires later this year and he is unlikely to sign a new contract for now. However, he could still return in time to play his way back into the All Blacks' plans for the 2015 Rugby World Cup in England.

Kaino has played 48 internationals for New Zealand and was one of their standout performers as they reclaimed the Rugby World Cup in October. He was due to play a central role in the Blues' Super Rugby campaign this season but suffered a shoulder injury against the Chiefs three weeks ago.